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Monday, March 16, 2015

Selecting The Correct Havana Hair Color – A Guide

Choosing the correct Havana hair color can be a tricky task, especially if you have color-treated or dyed hair. Although Finger Comber offers a hair color chart, it is outdated and does not always reflect the true color of their Havana hair colors. Read this guide before selecting your Havana hair to ensure that you have the right fit!Understanding Color in Kinky Hair ExtensionsThough Finger Comber compares their Havana hair colors to the hair color scale (1, 1b, 4, etc) that is used for straight-haired extensions, the rule of thumb to remember with Havana hair is that is always two shades darker than straight-hair extensions. Why? Like regular human hair, straight hair tends to reflect light making the color brighter and seemingly shiny, while kinky hair absorbs light, making the color darker and less shiny (Kong). This rule applies to extensions too. Whatever Havana color you choose, understand that it will be a darker, deeper tone than straight hair extensions with the same hair color number.

This is the Finger Comber chart of Havana hair colors found on their website. Even still, with this Finger Comber chart it is difficult to determine the hair color.

This is a chart I made to reflect my interpretation of the Havana hair colors in relation to straight hair extensions.

Notice the difference. The straight hair colors are brighter, while the Havana hair colors are deeper toned. As you can also see, the Havana hair colors Onyx, Chestnut Black, and Darkest Expresso are very similar. (In fact, I remember suggesting to my sister that she buy Darkest Expresso when Chestnut Black was out of stock. She found that the colors were similar and that the difference was not very noticeable).I ordered this redish-brown color of “Sangria” Havana hair. Finger Comber's website says that this “Sangria” hair is similar to #33 straight hair extensions. You can see, however, how much deeper toned the Havana hair is. The true color is only brighter in natural lighting.

I hope this chart is helpful to you as you select your Havana hair color. This is also a chart you can refer back to when purchasing other types of kinky hair.

Remember to moisturize and regularly take care of your hair and scalp even while it is in extensions. Using hair sprays or scalp massages are good ways to do this. Also, do not keep your extensions in longer than 3 weeks at a time. And always give your hair a rest before adding extensions back in. Your hair is healthiest and happiest when it is out on its own, so let it be extension-free for longer periods of time!Let me know if you have any questions and I’d be happy to help!Disclaimer: I have not bought all the shades of Havana hair. I made this chart off of my best judgment after buying the Sangria, Chestnut Black, Darkest Expresso, and Dark Hazelnut colors.Source: Going Natural: How to Fall in Love with Nappy Hair by Mireille Liong-A-Kong